Power Management and Distribution
The power management and distribution subsystem operates at a primary bus voltage set to Vmp, the peak power point of the solar arrays. As of December 30, 2005, Vmp was 160 volts DC (direct current). It can change over time as the arrays degrade from ionizing radiation. Microprocessor-controlled switches control the distribution of primary power throughout the station.
The battery charge/discharge units (BCDUs) regulate the amount of charge put into the battery. Each Battery Charge/Discharge Unit (BCDU) can regulate discharge current from two Battery ORUs, and can provide up to 6.6 kW to the Space Station. During isolation, the BCDU provides charge current to the batteries and controls the amount of battery overcharge. Each day, the BCDU and batteries undergo sixteen charge/ discharge cycles. The Space Station has 24 BCDUs, which each weigh 100 kg.
Read more about this topic: Electrical System Of The International Space Station
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